In January 1884 the Committee of Elections and Qualifications held that an error in the drafting of the constitution meant that George Reid could not be validly appointed Minister of Public Instruction, and declared his seat vacant.[4] Reid was defeated in the resulting by-election in February 1884.[3]
This ministry covers the period from 5 January 1883 until 6 October 1885. Suffering a paralytic stroke whilst in office, William Dalley was acting Premier from late 1884, with Dalley deciding to send a contingent of troops to the Sudan. Stuart resumed his duties in May 1885 before resigning in October due to continued ill health. His Treasurer, George Dibbs, succeeded Stuart as Premier.[5][6][7]
^ abDue to the illness of Sir Alexander Stuart, in addition to his other responsibilities, William Dalley was also charged with the duties of Colonial Secretary from 7 October 1884 to 11 May 1885.